In an extremely weak market for hitters, Cuddyer's likely unavailability is a big blow to teams that have interest.

Cuddyer, a proven veteran hitter whose versatility is a major bonus, was questionable as a trade target since suffering a broken shoulder a month ago. It was never clear if he would be ready to play before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. But beyond the injury, which is due to be looked at after the Rockies return from their next trip July 21, there are two more good reasons Cuddyer won't be going anywhere.

For one, owner Dick Monfort wants to keep him, as he suggested in a recent Denver Post interview. For another, the baseball people in this case are said to agree.